How Do I Measure the Space Needed for a Folding Frame Clothesline?
Choosing a folding frame clothesline from The Clothesline Store can save you serious space—but only if it fits your wall, courtyard, or backyard properly. Whether you’re after a compact drying solution or a wide-frame clothesline with maximum line space, understanding how to measure for installation is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to measure your space for a folding frame clothesline, explain wall mounted vs ground mounted installation, and share expert tips to ensure the model you choose from The Clothesline Store fits perfectly.
Introduction to Clothesline Measurement
Before browsing product pages or clicking add to cart, take a moment to measure your available space. This will ensure:
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The fold down clothesline frame clears walls, fences, or paths
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You maximise your line space for drying efficiency
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You choose the right installation type (wall or ground mounted)
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You avoid return hassles or incorrect sizing
Types of Clotheslines & Why It Matters
Understanding the type of clothesline affects how and where you measure. While rotary and retractable clotheslines suit larger or flexible spaces, folding frame clotheslines are ideal for side passages and courtyards where space is limited.
How to Measure Your Space for a Fold Down Clothesline
Measure Wall Width
Use a tape measure to determine the total width available on the wall. If your wall is an unusual size, Air Dry folding frame clotheslines can be custom-made to your exact millimetre requirements.
Measure Available Depth (Projection)
This is how far the clothesline extends from the wall when folded down. Ensure there are no doors, windows, or pathways obstructed.
Check the Height
The ideal mounting height is typically around 1800mm above ground level to prevent long garments dragging.
Ground Mounting vs Wall Mounted Installation
Wall mounted: Best suited to solid brick or concrete walls.
Ground mounted: Ideal where no suitable wall exists, using a ground mount kit.
Base plate kits: Perfect for fixing posts directly onto existing concrete.
Environmental Considerations
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Sunlight: North-facing locations dry clothes faster
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Airflow: Adequate clearance improves drying efficiency
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Laundry proximity: Shorter distance saves time and effort
Space Clearances: Measure Once, Install Once
🚫 Insufficient clearance: Always allow side and front clearance
Double check you have at least 50mm either side of the fold down frame and if you are considering a narrow path at least 500mm in front of the clothesline. This way your clothesline will fit correctly and not block the pathway when extended or your washing brush up against barriers either side of it.
🚫 Timber or Colorbond fences: Folding frame clotheslines must not be fixed directly to fence panels
Never bolt a folding frame directly to a timber or Colorbond fence panel. The structural load of wet washing requires either a brick wall or a dedicated Ground Mount Kit to prevent fence collapse.
🚫 BBQ proximity: Smoke and grease can stain clean laundry
Avoid measuring a space that is close to a BBQ or outdoor kitchen. Airborne grease and smoke will settle on your clean laundry, leading to stains and odours.
🚫 Miscalculating Line Height: Do not measure from the ground to the base of a coat hanger, if you use these regularly. Measure to the clothesline cord height. If the height of the person using the line is unknown, install the frame 1800mm above the ground surface.
Choosing the Right Model for Your Space
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Space Width |
Ideal Product Width |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
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1.5–1.8m |
1500–1800mm |
Courtyards, balconies, tight pathways |
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2.1–2.4m |
2100–2400mm |
Standard backyards |
|
2.7–3.3m |
2700–3300mm |
Larger families with more space and for those who do not want a rotary. |
Safety & Maintenance Tips
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Follow manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully.
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Check for overhead power lines before installing tall frames.
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Clean lines with a damp cloth monthly to prevent grime buildup.
Maximising Drying Efficiency
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Hang heavier clothes on outer lines and lighter items on inner lines.
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Ensure line tension stays firm so laundry doesn’t drag.
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Fold down the frame when not in use to extend its life.
Professional Clothesline Installation
The Clothesline Store offers professional installation in most capital cities and regional areas across Australia. Our service ensures your new clothesline is installed quickly, safely, and to manufacturer standards. This service is ideal for anyone looking for a stress-free solution with lasting results.
Why Choose The Clothesline Store
Choosing The Clothesline Store means you get expert advice, competitive pricing, and fast delivery directly from our warehouse. We focus on value and convenience to ensure you find the perfect clothesline for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a folding clothesline on a timber fence? ▼
We do not recommend mounting on to colourbond or timber fences, if there is no alternate wall, choose either a ground mount or rbase plate kit to install your fold down clothesline.
What is the ideal height for a clothesline? ▼
If the user's height is unknown, the best practice is to install the fold down so the cord height is 1800mm above the ground surface.
Conclusion:
Choosing a folding frame clothesline is an easy way to save space, but it all starts with accurate measurement. By checking your clearances and mounting height, you’ll enjoy years of easy clothes drying.
